The Japanese Prime Minister announced the abdication of Emperor Akihito.
In a solemn ceremony held in the palace, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced Emperor Akihito's abdication, and, as a representative of the Japanese people, expressed his gratitude to the Emperor.
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| Emperor Akihito has abdicated, passing the throne to his son, Crown Prince Naruhito. Photo: AP |
The ceremony took place in the Seiden Matsu-no-ma Hall of the Imperial Palace. All of the country's television channels broadcast the event live.
The treasures symbolizing imperial power were respectfully brought into the room: the sword which, according to ancient chronicles, belonged to the first emperor Jimmu, the ancient jewel, the Imperial Seal, and the Japanese State Seal.
Attending the ceremony were Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko, the heir to the throne Crown Prince Naruhito and his wife, members of the imperial family, as well as representatives of the three branches of government, totaling approximately 300 people.
In August 2016, Emperor Akihito delivered a speech to the nation, stating that due to his advanced age, he was no longer able to fulfill his duties and therefore wished to abdicate in favor of his heir and retire.
However, royal laws and the country's constitution stipulate that succession to the throne can only take place after the death of the current emperor.
Over the next ten months, the best experts in law, history, culture, and royal protocol debated whether there was any way to allow for such a disregard of the rules.
As a result, in June 2017, Congress passed a “special act” allowing the transfer of the Chrysanthemum Throne while the king was still alive.
For the first time in 25 years, the Imperial Household Agency was convened, and on December 1, 2017, approved the abdication date of Emperor Akihito – April 30, 2019 – and the enthronement of Crown Prince Naruhito on May 1.
On April 1st, Japan officially announced the name of its new era, Reiwa, which can be translated as "beauty and harmony."
